NEWBURYPORT HISTORY

The present city of Newburyport, Mass., on the Merrimack River, was originally the northern "Waterside" area of Newbury, Mass.. Newbury was settled as an agricultural enterprise by English colonists in 1635. Newburyport became a separate town in 1764, and a city in 1851. The seamless blending of past and present is one of Newburyport’s most unique qualities. You’ll see old Federalist-style mansions atop the sloping hill of High Street. The mansions once belonged to ship's captains, and most still have the widow's walks - an architectural feature specific to coastal New England that consist of a platform with railing where legend has it wives of those lost at seas could watch the sea for ships. Newburyport is a great town to wander the small side streets and check out the beautiful homes dating back to the 1600s. Home to one of the oldest homecoming festivals in the country and some of the best New England Christmas charm in the winter. Lastly, 11 miles of beautiful beaches make Newburyport one of the most desirable Historic Home towns of New England!

Noteworthy Historic Properties